7 free back-to-school events benefitting Birmingham students

It’s back-to-school season in the Magic City, and starting off on the right foot can make a world of difference for your child. Whether it’s supplies, a new backpack or a fresh look, there is still time to check those final steps off your list before the first day of class and squeeze in some summer fun at the same time.

To make it easy, check out the free events below to help prepare your student for a new school year.

1. School Supply Pop-up

Who doesn’t love free school supplies? Join Birmingham City Councilor Josh Vasa for the District 3 School Supply Pop-up. For students at Epic, Avondale and Glen Iris Elementary schools, there will be giveaways of book bags and other school supplies while they last.

• When: Sat., Aug. 1 | 10AM-12PM
• Where: Bessie Estell Park, 901 8th St S, Birmingham, AL, 35205

Not sure if this is your district? No problem—find out what district you live in on the City of Birmingham website.

2. Back-to-School Splash

End the summer with a splash with Birmingham City Councilor Brian Gunn at the District 4 Back-to-School Splash event. Students can receive free school supplies while it lasts and there will be food, music and water fun for the whole family.

• When: Sat., Aug. 1 | 12PM-6PM (senior hour at 11AM)
• Where: Maclin Park, 2701 F. L. Shuttlesworth Dr, Birmingham, AL, 35207

3. Community Health Fair

Get a healthy start to the school year at the Community Health Fair hosted by Birmingham City Council District 5 and the Alpha Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi. Resources from Children’s of Alabama, Jefferson County Department of Health, UAB, Veterans Affairs and more will be available.

• When: Sat., Aug. 8 | 9AM-2PM
• Where: A. H. Parker High School, 400 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr., Blvd, Birmingham, AL, 35204

4. Peace on the Block

To encourage safer, stronger communities, Birmingham City Council Districts 6 and 9 are partnering for Peace on the Block. This back-to-school event is all about bringing communities together for some end of summer fun featuring local vendors, music, food and community speakers.

• When: Sat., Aug. 1 | 10AM-2PM
• Where: 1200 Tuscaloosa Ave, Birmingham, AL, 35211

5. 2026 Bookbag Giveaway

For families in District 7, the 2026 Bookbag Giveaway is a chance to give students a confident start to the new school year. Don’t let the name fool you; this giveaway is about more than just backpacks. It’s a chance to provide students with everything they need for a successful school year, including supplies and a limited number of free haircuts.

• When: Sat., Aug. 1 | 10AM-2PM
• Where: Roosevelt City Recreation Center, 5904 Higan Ave, Birmingham, AL 35228

6. Strong Start School Supply Giveaway

Face painters, balloon artists, giveaways and more, all in one place? Say less! Kick off the school year right with the City of Birmingham’s Strong Start School Supply Giveaway. Food, family-friendly fun and free school supplies are all on the agenda for this city-wide event.

• When: Sat., Aug. 1 | 10AM-2PM
• Where: Birmingham CrossPlex, 2340 Crossplex Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35208

7. Lawson State Community College’s Cougar Fest 2026

Lawson State Community College is hosting a back-to-school event for more than just incoming college students. Whether you’re preparing your child for K-12, heading off to college for the first time or returning to LSCC, Cougar Fest 2026 offers resources and entertainment for the whole family.

• When: Sat., Aug. 8 | 11AM-3PM (LSCC new student orientation begins at 10AM)
• Where: Academic Success Center, 3060 Wilson Rd SW, Birmingham, AL 35221

Pay it forward! Donate with United Way of Central Alabama

Maybe you have more supplies than you need, or want to help kids who need the basics for a successful school year. United Way of Central Alabama is accepting donations now through backpack drives, financial donations or wish lists to ship items directly to students in need.

Find more ways to serve with UWCA this back-to-school season!

How is your family preparing for the new school year? Let us know on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.